Outbreak
Source of News
WHO Disease Outbreak News
Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus cases reported in Saudi Arabia
MERS-CoV cases detected in Saudi Arabia linked to camel exposure
Between January and October 5, 2026, Saudi Arabia reported eight laboratory-confirmed MERS-CoV cases, including one death, across six locations. Cases appear to represent sporadic infections related to zoonotic spillover from dromedary camels rather than a single outbreak cluster.
Why this matters
If you travel to Saudi Arabia or work with camels, avoid close contact with dromedary camels and their products; practice hand hygiene and seek immediate care if you develop fever, cough, or breathing difficulties.